New Down Syndrome Center Opens In Patchogue

PATCHOGUE, NY — A new non-profit opened a new Down Syndrome center in Patchogue recently. GiGi's Playhouse launched its new location on 100 Austin Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sunday.

"Today we celebrated our hard work over the last couple of years with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and in just a few short weeks we have our virtual grand opening," a post on the organization's Facebook page read. "Thank you to everyone who has helped us along the way and continue to help us. Thank you to the amazing painters that have helped bring this space to life. Also, a thank you to this special committee who have poured their hearts into this and brought the playhouse together over the last month."

GiGi's Playhouse offers educational and therapeutic services for individuals with Down syndrome.

The programs will help to support families in developing high expectations for their son or daughter with Down syndrome. The non-profit will also aim to help parents overcome the diagnosis and maintain high expectations for their child to achieve success in social, educational and employment opportunities in the future.

People with Down syndrome will also be able to participate in programs that focus on structure and routine, which lends to recognition and comprehension of program activities.

A virtual grand opening will be held on March 20 via the organization's website or Facebook starting at 10 a.m.

The group has 50 locations nationwide, but the Patchogue center is the first on Long Island.
GiGi's also created an Amazon wishlist for those who want to help furnish the new space.